Abstract
Public participation in the affairs of the state is considered a core element of good governance. Public participation in local government engages direct or indirect involvement of stakeholders in decisions related to policies, plans, or programmes in which they are interested. This study assessed the state of public participation in local government, with specific reference to Ekurhuleni, and highlighted its significance for democratic governance. Furthermore, the legitimacy of a state can be undermined if it fails to involve the community in its affairs. Hence, community awareness of public participation in municipal affairs, and the effectiveness of the implemented mechanisms and systems by the City of Ekurhuleni was focused upon.
The study adopted a qualitative research approach; a case study design; and gathered data from primary sources (interviews and participant observation) including secondary sources (literature and documentary sources). The study was conducted in two wards which comprise of multiple social dynamics in terms of, for example, education, health, employment, and basic services. Furthermore, the sample comprised of councillors, municipal officials and ward committee members, members of the community, and business organisations.
The findings revealed that the current public participation strategies are adequate. In addition, the study also revealed that the City of Ekurhuleni has implemented public participation to guide the municipality in the facilitation of the process. This policy outlines acceptable structures for effective public participation. However, the findings further revealed that a significant negative attitude exists between the ward councillors, community members, and ward committee members towards participation in municipal affairs, for example, lack of interest in municipal affairs, poor attendance at public meetings, and lack of education.
This study proposes specific recommendations of how the City of Ekurhuleni can address the current limitations in terms of its public participation systems and strategies. The recommendations include, inter alia, establish Community Development Workers, enhance the level of participation, municipal visibility, existing public participation initiatives, as well as civic education.
Keywords: Public participation; Good governance; Democracy; Local government; Municipality; and City of Ekurhuleni